The East Side, RI Real Estate

The East Side of Providence is the section of the city where Brown University and The Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) reside. It is located to the east of downtown and to the north of Narragansett Bay. The East Side, which includes the most historic section of the city, is comprised of multiple vibrant and walkable neighborhoods, interspersed with blocks of unique shops, restaurants, galleries and other services. The feel is partly urban and partly suburban. Students and nightlife populate some neighborhoods and baby strollers and coffee shops fill others. The neighborhoods such as College Hill, Fox Point, Hope Village, Wayland Square and others all have strong associations to represent the interests of their residents. In addition a newspaper, East Side Monthly, carries neighborhood stories and lists of local activities.

Thanks in part to the efforts of the Providence Preservation Society, the city has one of the largest and most diverse concentrations of preserved architecture in the United States. Homes for sale on the East Side of Providence embody a variety of styles such as Federal, Greek Revival, Victorian and Colonial style homes along with Mid-Century Modern and even the occasional Contemporary. Additional available real estate includes condominiums, both small conversions and larger complexes, multi-unit buildings and rentals.

The East Side Information

The East Side is steeped in old New England charm with its striking, historic architecture and beautiful stone and brick sidewalks. Three of the state’s more prominent prep schools as well as Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design are located on the East Side.

Impressions/Character

With wonderful homes, fine restaurants, exotic boutiques, and quiet elegance this desirable area also provides easy accessibility to highways and downtown. There’s ample shopping, 3 major supermarkets, a variety of bakeries, coffee shops and specialty food stores, as well as restaurants that range from down-home to upscale. In addition most religious denominations can find accommodating worship services.

Villages/Neighborhoods

Bordered by water on three sides, there are several distinctive neighborhoods--Blackstone, Wayland, Hope, Mount Hope, Summit, College Hill and Fox Point--tucked into 3 square miles, each with their own personality, affordability, shopping and lifestyle.

The Blackstone Neighborhood encompasses the largest area of the East Side. It is highlighted by Blackstone Boulevard, a stately tree-lined thoroughfare with a walking path that bisects the median; designed by the legendary landscape architect Horace W.S. Cleveland. People from all over the state flock to “the boulevard” to walk, run, stroll, and play with pets. It’s a friendly environment where students, children, and people of all ages enjoy brisk, enthusiastic recreation. This particular area is home to a surprising range of distinctive restaurant fare.

Wayland is the neighborhood around Wayland Square, an upscale shopping area well suited for all fine living needs including gifts, fashions, books, music, and antiques. These few blocks successfully maintain their own characteristic restaurant scene. From cozy to tony, the Wayland Square neighborhood is qualified to delight for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. In addition, the area has the largest concentration of higher-end apartments in the county.

College Hill is distinguished by its architecture; the Benefit Street “Mile of History” is home to elegant residences, impressive churches, and the renowned RISD art museum. Brown University is largely located amid the bustling shopping district of Thayer Street which caters to students and residents alike. Abundantly furnished with pizza restaurants, pubs, and unique shops, College Hill is ideal for those who enjoy the lively feel of an active area.

Fox Point has become home to many younger transplants that have migrated to the neighborhood for its convenience, contemporary style, and walk-ability. A variety of historic homes, multi’s, and apartments make up most of the housing stock and it ranks among the most affordable and accessible areas of the East Side. Nearby Wickenden Street possesses the decorative touches of its inhabiting artists, and is a mini-Mecca for students and young professionals to find coffees, beers, and a variety cultural foods. Fox Point is situated in a great concentration of parks and recreational areas, including the waterfront space known as India Point Park, perfect for dog walking, bike riding, or weekend picnicking.